Gulfport's First Friday Art Walk and More This Holiday Season

Shop Local at Gulfport's First Friday Art Walk on December 6! While shopping for that perfect gift, visitors can meet and purchase the works of talented independent artisans, craftsmen, authors and entertainers, stretched over a half-mile up and down scenic Beach Boulevard, on Friday, December 6, from 6:00 pmto10:00 pm. Live musicians appear at several venues throughout the waterfront district. While browsing the art and craft booths, don't miss Gulfport's unique shops, boutiques and galleries and enjoy dinner at one of over a dozen fine restaurants within the area. There is no admission fee for visitors and complimentary parking is available nearby with courtesy trolley rides available from off-site parking areas. Gulfport events are pet and family friendly. Experience a dining, shopping and cultural experience unlike any other. The event is located near the surrounding area of 3129 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707. For More information, follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/GulfportArtWalk, visit us at www.GulfportMA.com or call 727-322-5217.

Madeira Beach Holiday Market Place - December 7-8

Support small business and independent artisans and crafters by shopping local! Madeira Way presents the inaugural Holiday Market Place on December 7 & 8, 2013 from 10am to 5pm. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit Madeira Beach Charities. Holiday Market Place is a celebration of arts, crafts, food, and holiday excitement. Stroll the decorated streets filled with talented exhibitors and unique shops and galleries. Santa will make a special appearance on Saturday 12/7 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, for tropical holiday photo ops and will also be accepting letters to Santa. The festival will provide shoppers with one-of-a-kind gifts that cannot be found anywhere else, and all of your holiday shopping can be done in one place! Madeira Way events are pet and family friendly and there is no admission fee for visitors. Complimentary parking is available nearby. The event will take place in the surrounding area of 15004 Madeira Way, Madeira Beach, FL 33708. For More information visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/MonthlyMadnessMadBch or call 727-322-5217.

Gulfport's Holiday Hoopla! - December 14

Don't get your Tinsel in a Tangle...It's time to get your holiday cheer in gear! Support small business and independent artisans and crafters by shopping local! The Gulfport Merchants Association presents the 5th Annual Holiday Hoopla on December 14, 2013 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Make and Take gifts are back by popular demand! For a nominal fee, attendees can visit the Gypsy Cat Creations booth and make their own wire & fabric sculptures or the Industrial Art Center of Gulfport's (IACG) booth for additional make your own craft options. The IACG will also host a Grand Re-opening in the Alley of the Arts, with make your own glass ornaments or other type vessel with special holiday pricing.

Visitors will be enchanted by a variety of festive and fun holiday-themed music, holiday carolers, dance performances, and roving street performers. Many types of entertainment will perform during the Hoopla, from local school bands & Choral groups and local musicians to area performing arts groups. Performers include Dickens characters and Christmas carolers, the Boca Ciega High School Color Guard, Drum Line, and Jazz Band, The Paul Anthony Band, Joel & Dakota, Yesterday, Karina's School of Hula Dance and Santa Claus. Whether you're a Gulfport resident or a visitor from out of town, there's plenty to see and do at Gulfport's Holiday Hoopla event. With over a half mile of shopping, food, fun, and holiday splendor this festive event has become a Tampa Bay holiday tradition!

The Gulfport Merchant's Association gives back to the community all year round. During the Holiday Hoopla event donations will be collected for Operation Santa (new toys/gift cards, etc.) and the Gulfport Senior Center Foundation (nonperishable food, toiletries & pet supplies). Collection Boxes will be located at the Casino Stage at the intersection of Beach and Shore Boulevards during the event. Prior to the event drop off locations include Gulfport Police Department and The Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce.

Shop local for interesting last minute gift selections in Gulfport's Waterfront Art District, on Saturday, December 21 from 6:00 -10:00 pm. Gulfport's authentic "Old Florida" atmosphere will provide a unique and relaxing shopping experience for visitors of all persuasions. Marvel at the work of artists and craftsmen, as well as authors and entertainers stretched over a half-mile up and down scenic Beach Boulevard. Live musicians including the Urban Gypsies, the Double M Band, and others will be appearing at venues throughout the Art Village. While browsing the art and craft booths, visitors may also enjoy Gulfport's unique shops, boutiques, galleries and restaurants. There is no admission fee for visitors and complimentary parking is available nearby with courtesy trolley rides available from off-site parking areas. Gulfport events are pet and family friendly. Experience a dining, shopping and cultural experience unlike any other. The event is located near the surrounding area of 3129 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707. For More information, follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/GulfportArtWalk, visit us at www.GulfportMA.com or call 727-322-5217.